The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, has warned officers against brutality, extortion, unlawful arrests and other forms of misconduct, stressing that violations of policing standards would attract disciplinary action.
Fatai gave the directive on Thursday during a general lecture for officers and men of the command at the POWA Hall, GRA, Ikeja.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the lecture was attended by area commanders, divisional police officers, tactical commanders, heads of departments and other personnel.
The CP reiterated the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, on addressing complaints against police personnel, particularly allegations of brutality, extortion, unlawful arrests and detention.
He charged officers to discharge their duties lawfully and respect citizens’ rights, warning that misconduct would attract disciplinary action. He also stressed that supervisory officers would be held accountable for the conduct of personnel under their command.
Fatai specifically warned tactical teams against extortion, brutality, intimidation, incivility towards members of the public and other dishonest practices. He directed their commanders to ensure that operations were conducted professionally and with restraint.
He cautioned that operational responsibilities must not be used as an excuse to exploit or harass members of the public, stressing that officers must respect citizens’ rights in the discharge of their duties.
On social media use, the CP directed all personnel to comply strictly with the Nigeria Police Force’s Social Media Policy. He warned that inappropriate online conduct capable of undermining the image of the Force would attract sanctions for erring officers and their responsible supervisors.
Addressing cultism, Fatai urged officers to intensify efforts to combat the menace while ensuring that arrests were lawful and in accordance with due process. He prohibited arrests by proxy and the arrest of individuals without lawful justification.
He also directed officers to safeguard the lives and welfare of suspects in police custody, ensure close supervision of detainees and treat them humanely throughout their detention.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the CP charged officers to remain neutral and professional. He directed them to monitor electioneering campaigns and provide adequate security to maintain peace and public order.
He further urged personnel to keep abreast of local and international developments, improve their professional capacity and remain vigilant against emerging security threats that could affect Lagos State.
Fatai reminded officers that public trust must be earned through responsible conduct, impartial enforcement of the law and respect for the rights of every citizen.
